When Love Turns Dangerous (Tara) novel Chapter 151

Jonah's luxury car pulled away from the flower shop entrance, turned the corner, and disappeared down the right side of the road.

Inside the shop, the shop assistant, Casey Hunt, asked Tara, "Do you know that gentleman?"

Tara smiled. "He's my boss."

Casey's eyes lit up with excitement. Jonah used to be a celebrity. Even though he had stepped away from the spotlight, working at his company still sounded like a total dream.

"I was too shy to ask him for an autograph earlier. Could you help me get one?"

Casey handed Tara a photo of Jonah, hoping she could get it signed for her.

Tara politely declined. "I'm just an employee at one of his branch offices. It's not easy to even run into him, so I probably can't help you."

Casey's smile faltered, though she quickly tried to cover it up. "It's my fault. I was too busy staring to ask."

Tara responded with a gentle smile and picked out a few flowers. She caught a glimpse of the regret on Casey's face as she turned to leave. She came to this shop often, and it was usually Casey who helped her.

Just before stepping out, she said, "I can't promise when I'll be able to get his autograph. Maybe next Christmas, or even later."

Casey immediately handed over the photo again. "I can wait! My aunt owns this shop, so I'll be working here for a long time."

Tara took the photo and slipped it into the inner pocket of her bag.

"Who knows? Maybe you'll run into him again before I do," she said jokingly.

After all, Jonah's grandmother lived in this city and loved lilies. This was the second time Tara had seen them at this flower shop, although the first time it was Noah making the purchase.

Looking a little sheepish, Casey pulled out two more photos of Jonah. "Just covering all my bases."

Tara couldn't help but laugh. It seemed Casey truly wanted his autograph.

…

On the first day back at work after the holidays, Tara received several gift cards. The cheerful start put her in a great mood. She found herself smiling at everyone and feeling unusually motivated.

During a team meeting in mid-March, David announced that two employees would be chosen for a two-month training program at headquarters. He hadn't decided on the names yet, so several of Tara's coworkers quickly volunteered.

Tara had no idea there were any perks tied to the opportunity, so she didn't raise her hand.

David gave her a quick glance. "Tara was named Outstanding Employee at the annual gala, so her spot is already confirmed. As for the second candidate, I'll need a little more time. I'll let you know once it's decided. That's all for now."

Tara was completely caught off guard. She wondered if she had really been chosen.

Her coworkers gathered around to congratulate her, each one jumping in to explain what training at headquarters really meant.

"Tara, once you're back from training at HQ, there's a good chance you'll get promoted!"

"Yeah, and they'll take care of your housing too. People who've gone before said the accommodations were amazing. There's even a bonus on top of it."

"Tara, don't forget about us when you come back all promoted and successful."

Tara let out a helpless laugh. Nothing was set in stone, but the way they were talking made it sound like her promotion was already signed and sealed.

On her first day at the headquarters, Tara and her coworkers entered the towering Pearson Group building. Though her face showed no sign of it, she was deeply impressed. Pearson Group's reputation was truly well-deserved.

After clocking in, she was assigned to Grace Arnold, a senior employee at headquarters. Grace didn't hold anything back and guided her through the new role with patience.

By the end of the day, Tara had learned quickly. Grace was impressed and praised her for being sharp and able to pick things up right away.

Tara felt a little shy about the praise. After all, this was work she had done in her past life.

…

A week had passed since Tara arrived at the headquarters. The workload was about the same as back in Naoundbury.

One morning, she and Alice stood in the lobby waiting for the elevator. Everyone else waiting suddenly turned their heads toward the entrance, so Tara followed their gaze.

Jonah appeared, dressed in an impeccably tailored suit that perfectly showed off his tall figure. He strode forward with a cold and noble presence. He seemed unapproachable, yet it was impossible to look away from him.

"Good morning, Mr. Pearson."

"Morning, Mr. Pearson."

Jonah nodded with a calm expression, then stepped into the CEO's private elevator.

Many female coworkers gazed at him with admiration. Just catching a glimpse of him in the morning was enough to lift their spirits for the day.

Tara glanced at the elevator doors, which were about to open, then looked back toward Jonah in the private elevator. To her surprise, she met his eyes and realized he was watching her. A jolt of nervousness hit her, so she quickly looked away.